Should I Consult An Orthopedic Specialist For Shoulder Sprain?

Posted on Sat, 22 Aug 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 22 Aug 2015 Answered on

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I fell a week ago and sprained according to X-ray the right front muscle below my shoulder, I can move shoulder but have a problem reaching out to lift out to move unless I help it with the left arm, there is a bruise on the outer skin. I hit it hard on the corner of a wall. Do I go to have Ortho look or exercise and wait a little longer.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
if no improvement then should see someone

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic

IF there is no improvement at all with movements then you should go and see an orthopedic specialist.

If there is even minimal improvement then you should continue with the motrin (the anti inflammatory effect would help even if no pain), can also try warm compresses to see if the heat relaxes the muscles, exercises continue as well.
After a few more days (4 to 5), if there is no further or significant change then you can see a doctor.

Bruising can occur as a result of any trauma due to damage of the small vessels in the skin
I hope this helps, feel to ask any other questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar